Marine fuels firm Alkagesta is reportedly exploring the expansion of its Ultra Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (ULSFO) supply to Spain, according to the source publication. This consideration follows the introduction of an emission control area in the Mediterranean earlier this year.
The firm is said to be considering obtaining a local trader licence in Spain to facilitate ULSFO supply. Additionally, Alkagesta is looking into commencing sales of B24 biofuel blends within the country, as stated in a company announcement.
Since the Mediterranean ECA's implementation in May, Alkagesta has already supplied 500,000 metric tonnes of ULSFO across the Central and Eastern Mediterranean regions. The company highlighted Spain's strategic importance as a bunkering hub and a gateway for European Union trade.
Spain's infrastructure, including major ports such as Barcelona, Valencia, Algeciras, Tarragona, and Bilbao, is deemed central to the supply and distribution of transition fuels. These facilities are seen as crucial for supporting the regional shift towards low-emission marine operations.
The source publication noted that Spanish ports, including Algeciras, Valencia, and Barcelona, have upgraded their bunkering facilities. These upgrades are intended to provide compliant fuels, including ULSFO and biofuels, to meet new sulphur limits.
This ensures a consistent supply of low-emission fuels to vessels operating in the region, according to the company's statement.
